Mexican Orange Blossom Growing Guide

What is Mexican Orange Blossom?

Mexican Orange Blossom (Choisya ternata) is a small compact evergreen shrub. It is part of the Rutaceae family and is native to Mexico. It is a round, bushy plant with an abundance of shiny, dark green leaves. Younger leaves start off as lime green before they mature into the dark green colour. There are different varieties such as Choisya ternata sundance which has yellow foliage. In Spring clusters of small white fragrant flowers appear at the tip of the branches. Mexican Orange Blossom requires a full sun to part shade position in the garden. It is frost tolerant.

Benefits of Growing Mexican Orange Blossom

Mexican Orange Blossom is a fast, hardy and easy to grow shrub. It is ideal to form a low glossy hedge or as a background plant. The flowers will attract butterflies and other beneficial insects.

How to Grow Mexican Orange Blossom

Mexican Orange Blossom

Climatic Zones

Cool to mild tropical.

Plant Size

Height: 1.5m, Width: 2m

When To Plant Mexican Orange Blossom

Plant anytime.

Soil Preparation

Mexican Orange Blossom likes a slightly acid, humous rich and well drained soil.

How To Plant Mexican Orange Blossom

Plant in full sun to part shade, 2m apart with the plant crown at soil level. For hedging space 60-90cm apart.

Mexican Orange Blossom Plant Care

Water regularly until the plant is established. Allow soil to dry out between watering as Mexican Orange Blossom prefer to be kept on the dry side and can die from over watering.

Apply mulch annually to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilise with a slow release fertiliser in Spring.

Prune after flowering to maintain dense growth habit.